Fire hazards, carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, and heating accidents are common during the colder months, but with a few simple steps, you can ensure your home remains safe. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recommends the following safety tips to protect yourself and your loved ones:
Winter Safety Tips
1. Check CO and Smoke Alarms
- Test Monthly: Test both smoke and CO alarms every month to ensure they are functioning correctly. Change the batteries at least once a year (or more often if needed).
- Never Ignore an Alarm: If you hear an alarm, do not ignore it. Leave your home immediately and call 911 from a safe location.
- Clear Snow from Vents: Ensure that snow does not block vents for fuel-burning appliances like furnaces, as this could lead to dangerous CO buildup inside your home.
2. Safe Use Of Portable Heaters
Portable space heaters are great for staying warm but can pose serious fire hazards if not used properly. Here’s how to use them safely:
- Maintain a 3-Foot Clearance: Keep all sides of the heater at least 3 feet away from beds, clothes, curtains, papers, furniture, and anything else that could catch fire.
- Use Wall Outlets Only: Always plug heaters directly into a wall outlet. Never use a power strip or extension cord. Avoid running the heater’s cord under rugs or carpeting, as this can cause overheating.
- Avoid Water Exposure: Never place heaters near water, and don’t touch them if you’re wet, as this could lead to electric shock.
- Stable Surface: Place the heater on a level, stable surface to prevent it from tipping over.
- Never Leave Unattended: Never leave a heater running unattended, especially in a confined space.
- Hot Cord or Plug: If the heater’s cord or plug feels hot to the touch, unplug it immediately and have it inspected by a professional. Similarly, if the outlet feels warm, contact a certified electrician to assess the issue.
3. Charcoal Grills and Candles Safety
Charcoal grills and candles are popular during winter, but both present serious hazards when used improperly.
- Never Use Charcoal Indoors: Charcoal produces lethal amounts of carbon monoxide when burned, so never use a charcoal grill indoors or in an enclosed space, such as a garage—even with the door open.
- Use Flashlights, Not Candles: Flashlights are a safer alternative to candles. If you must use candles, always keep them on a stable surface and never leave them unattended.
- Candle Safety: Keep candles away from anything that could catch fire, including curtains, clothing, and paper. Extinguish candles before leaving the room or going to sleep.
4. Gas Leaks Safety
Gas leaks can be incredibly dangerous, especially in winter when you may be using gas-powered heaters or appliances.
- Smell or Hear Gas? If you smell gas or hear a hissing sound, leave your home immediately—do not attempt to investigate or fix the issue yourself.
- Contact Authorities: Once outside, call local gas authorities to report the leak.
- Do Not Use Electronics: Never operate any electrical devices, including lights or phones, if you suspect a gas leak, as sparks could ignite the gas and cause an explosion.
By following these essential winter safety tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of accidents related to heating, fire, and carbon monoxide in your home.
Contact an Experienced Fire Personal Injury Attorney Today
GLP Attorneys has extensive experience handling personal injury cases, including fire-related deaths and injuries. We are here to support you as you mentally, physically, and financially recover from an accident.
Our Fire Injuries practice is led by Janelle Carney Boston, Managing Shareholder of the Boise, Coeur d’Alene, Spokane, Spokane Valley, and Tri-Cities offices of GLP Attorneys. If you have been involved in a fire-related accident, please contact our attorneys for a free consultation at 800.273.5005.